I think most people who read these forums with an IHG membership has gamed the system at some point or another. I'm not sure that's abusing the system, especially when IHG themselves know about the loopholes and don't/can't close them but at the same time promote gaming within their rewards program. Even their own forum has promoted codes to use for bonus points so how is the average travel forum gamer to know which are those that are a wink and nod OK (maximising point earn in your words) and which are those that IHG consider abuse worthy of account closure. It's just very bizarre behaviour for a loyalty program. Sure, let IHG tighten up the system.....that's not only their prerogative but it's also wise business for them......but to close accounts because of gaming the system?? Come on. How are they determining who should have their account closed? I've gamed their system with codes I wasn't targeted for, but I've also gamed their system in their own Big Win promo.......so why should others accounts be closed but mine still OK? It's just plain wrong.